Few snacks hit the spot quite like a cheese straw. They’re savory, crunchy, and pack a cheesy punch. But let’s be real, not all cheese straws are created equal. Some are bland, some are too greasy, and some just don’t have that perfect snap. After trying dozens (maybe more!), I’ve narrowed down the best cheese straws you can actually buy.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Wanamaker’s Carolina Cheese Straws: Classic cheddar flavor, perfectly crisp.
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit Cheese Crisps: Buttery and flaky with a hint of spice.
- Grey Ghost Bakery Marion Street Cheese Straws: Sharp cheddar with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Charleston Favorites Cheese Straws: Traditional Southern recipe, great for gifting.
- Original Texas Cheese Straws: Bold flavor and extra-long straws for maximum snacking.
Top 5 Best Cheese Straws To Buy
Wanamaker’s Carolina Cheese Straws
Wanamaker’s makes a seriously good cheese straw. These are the classic cheddar cheese straws you crave. They are perfectly baked with an amazing crunch.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent cheddar flavor
- ✅ Perfectly crisp texture
- ✅ Not too greasy
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a little salty for some
- ❌ Simple flavor profile, not adventurous
- ❌ The bag is never big enough!
Verdict: If you’re looking for a quintessential, no-frills cheese straw, Wanamaker’s is your best bet. Great for everyday snacking or serving at parties.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit Cheese Crisps
These cheese crisps from Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit are like a gourmet upgrade to the classic cheese straw. They’re made with real butter and have a flaky, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture. There’s also a subtle kick of spice that keeps you coming back for more.
Pros:
- ✅ Buttery and flaky texture
- ✅ Delicious subtle spice
- ✅ High-quality ingredients
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other brands
- ❌ Might be too spicy for some palates
- ❌ Can be a bit fragile, prone to breaking
Verdict: If you’re looking for a sophisticated cheese straw experience, Callie’s is the way to go. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Grey Ghost Bakery Marion Street Cheese Straws
Grey Ghost Bakery’s cheese straws are another standout. They have a wonderfully sharp cheddar flavor and a delicate, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture. These are made with care and you can really taste the difference.
Pros:
- ✅ Sharp cheddar flavor
- ✅ Melt-in-your-mouth texture
- ✅ Made with high-quality ingredients
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a little crumbly
- ❌ Price point is higher than average
- ❌ Availability may be limited
Verdict: If you appreciate a truly refined cheese straw, Grey Ghost Bakery won’t disappoint. Ideal for cheese lovers who want a more delicate bite.
Charleston Favorites Cheese Straws
Charleston Favorites offers a more traditional, Southern-style cheese straw. These are made with a classic recipe and have a satisfyingly crunchy texture. They’re perfect for gifting or serving at a Southern-themed gathering.
Pros:
- ✅ Traditional Southern recipe
- ✅ Great for gifting
- ✅ Good crunch
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit dry
- ❌ Flavor is not as bold as some others
- ❌ Packaging could be improved for freshness
Verdict: For a taste of the South, Charleston Favorites is a solid choice. A good option for those who prefer a more classic, less intense cheese straw.
Original Texas Cheese Straws
These cheese straws are big, bold, and full of flavor. The Original Texas Cheese Straws stand out because they’re long – seriously, they’re like cheese straw chopsticks! And they have a great cheesy flavor with a hint of spice.
Pros:
- ✅ Bold flavor
- ✅ Extra-long straws
- ✅ Good crunch
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too spicy for some
- ❌ May be too brittle for some
- ❌ Not as refined as other brands
Verdict: If you like your cheese straws with a kick and in a larger-than-life format, Original Texas Cheese Straws are worth a try. Perfect for snacking on the go or adding a bit of fun to a party.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cheese straws can be tricky, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Flavor: Do you prefer a mild cheddar flavor, or something with a bit of spice? Consider what flavors you generally enjoy in your snacks.
- Texture: Some cheese straws are super crunchy, while others are more delicate and melt-in-your-mouth. Think about what texture you prefer.
- Ingredients: Look for cheese straws made with real cheese and butter for the best flavor. Avoid those with artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Purpose: Are you buying cheese straws for yourself, to serve at a party, or as a gift? This will influence the type and quantity you choose.
- Price: Cheese straws can range in price from affordable to quite expensive. Set a budget before you start shopping.
- Freshness: Check the “best by” date to ensure you’re getting a fresh product. Nobody wants stale cheese straws!
FAQs
Q: What are cheese straws made of?
A: Typically, cheese straws are made from flour, butter, cheese (usually cheddar), and spices. Some recipes may also include salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper for a little kick.
Q: How should I store cheese straws?
A: Store cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them soggy.
Q: Can I make cheese straws at home?
A: Yes, absolutely! There are tons of cheese straw recipes online. It’s a fun baking project and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.
Q: Are cheese straws gluten-free?
A: Traditional cheese straws are not gluten-free, as they contain wheat flour. However, you can find or make gluten-free versions using alternative flours like almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Q: What do you serve with cheese straws?
A: Cheese straws are great on their own as a snack, but they also pair well with soups, salads, or dips. They can also be a nice addition to a cheese board or charcuterie platter.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect cheese straw is a personal journey, but hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point. Whether you prefer a classic cheddar flavor or something with a little more zing, there’s a cheese straw out there for you. So go ahead, grab a bag (or two!) and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness. Happy snacking!
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